When leadership fails to listen or blatantly disregards or dismisses their constituents, it creates a harsh disconnect between the government and the people it serves. This can and has led to feelings of frustration, anger, and ultimately a breakdown in trust between the community and its leaders.
‘Twas the night before council, and all through the city, Affordable units demolished, oh what a pity. The ADU pilot awaited support with care, In hopes that affordable units soon would be there. The developers nestled all snug in their beds, With visions of profits and luxury spreads.
In 2016 Raleigh’s Planning Director promised Raleigh’s BRT would serve “some of Raleigh’s lowest-wealth communities .. [and] ensure that these investments benefit rather than displace households and families.” At the New Bern BRT Kickoff Meeting, a senior city planner pledged the city would “make sure the BRT benefits … are shared equitably … so that existing residents of the New Bern corridor … are going to be there to benefit”
I’d like to talk to you tonight about how the city of Raleigh has declined under the leadership, or lack of leadership, with Mary-Ann Baldwin.
Every day I see good, affordable, multi-unit housing being torn down and replaced with McMansions or “luxury” apartments. This is going on ALL OVER THE CITY and was put on steroids by the Missing Middle policy changes.
The City of Raleigh needs to stand by their non-discrimination ordinance and uphold their promise of opposing discrimination in all forms. Even if that form comes from state legislatures. What I’m asking you to do is to work on an official statement, from the Raleigh City Council, that condemns the passage of anti-LGBTQ and other discriminatory laws. The queer community in Raleigh needs your support. They need protection from those that sympathize with anti-gay, anti-trans, anti-queer bigotry.
I have a simple request today but I am not sure how to get my voice heard and a proposal executed in a timely manner.
It is my understanding that you are planning on meeting in a closed session to discuss the City Clerk position. There is no reason to meet in a closed session unless you’re dealing with resumes. I understand you’re dealing with the structure of the Clerk’s position. You need to do that out in the open.
By imposing restrictions on speaking time, you are excluding valuable input and shutting down important conversations that need to take place. Each member of our community deserves the opportunity to be heard, NO MATTER HOW LONG IT TAKES.
Actions speak louder than words, and the action city council took on the Shaw University was one that allows religious discrimination to continue, and the enabling of an administration looking to avoid the consequences of their own actions. Government is supposed to protect the community, not to create investment opportunities for the wealthy. And Raleigh City Council chose the latter. It’s a disgrace to democracy.